Gaining work experience

Did you know that it is possible to gain work experience prior to graduating university through co-op, internship and job shadowing opportunities?

Co-op

Try out different roles through paid work opportunities that can last anywhere from 4 to 8 months. Co-op can be mandatory or optional depending on what university you attend, but they are definitely worthwhile to gain valuable work experience. Examples of co-op programs include Waterloo University’s mandatory engineering co-op program aka the largest co-op program on the planet or optional summer co-ops such as those offered at Western University, Faculty of Engineering.

Internship

Gaining work experience through an internship will give you a competitive advantage when you graduate. Ranging from 12-16 month placements you will be able to work on advanced engineering projects from start to finish and get a real taste of what being an engineer means. Average salary ranges start at $45,000/yr so this is well worth a look.

Job Shadowing

Not interested in committing to a full work term? You can opt for a job shadowing program, like the one offered at UOIT, that lets you connect with female engineering professionals and see what a typical day looks like.